Space shapes us, even when we forget its influence. By definition, architecture, as both an art and a science, organizes human-modified environments, transforming nature to suit our lives and work. Sometimes, architecture itself must innovate, rediscovering forgotten aspects to forge new paths. This is the story of Forgotten Architecture, a Facebook group founded in 2019 by architect and curator Bianca Felicori, which evolved into a book in 2022. This archive of completed yet vanished projects, published by NERO Editions, was made possible through the support of the Directorate-General for Contemporary Creativity of the Ministry of Culture, as part of Italian Council (12th edition, 2023) and RESIDENZA 725—shopping universe, land of culture. Bianca Felicori shares her insights.
The Fluid Geography of Forgotten Architecture
«The fascinating aspect of the “geography” of forgotten architecture is its organic nature, driven by user contributions rather than strict geographical criteria. It reflects personal connections, experiences, and cultural backgrounds, creating a community-driven narrative, free from rigid scientific methodologies. In the book, however, I integrated scholarly approaches to balance geographical representation, ensuring a blend of Italian, European, and global examples.»
Ephemeral Structures: Redefining Temporary Architecture
«Ephemeral architecture, by its very nature, is the epitome of forgotten architecture. Today, we see emerging studios embracing temporary forms, from installations to pavilions, driven by resource constraints and a desire to challenge conventional architectural norms. Conversely, large-scale ephemeral projects, tied to national and international events, often mask significant environmental impacts under the guise of “hyper-sustainability.” Yet, there’s a growing movement to repurpose materials from these structures.»
“On the Road”: The Evolving Landscape of Travel Architecture
«The “on the road” chapter holds a special significance, crafted by Carlotta Franco and Debora Tintis, who also managed the image rights. This segment, framed as a dialogue between travelers, captures the sentimental essence of automotive journeys, blending nostalgia with architectural landmarks like service stations and motels. Once deemed utilitarian, these structures are now undergoing a renaissance, with renovations and adaptive reuse projects. There’s potential to infuse these spaces with leisure and entertainment, aligning with the dynamic nature of vehicular architecture.»
A Digital Legacy: Community, Conversation, and Change
«For me, it’s about pioneering alternative dialogues on architectural history. I envision this project as a lasting resource, utilizing new media to bridge academic and public spheres. Initiating this dialogue at 25 allowed me to challenge cultural norms and gender biases, fostering a platform for aspiring female architects. My legacy is to empower a generation.»
Architecture Meets Urban Culture: A Catalyst for Renewal?
«The aestheticization of large-scale housing projects and brutalist architecture, driven by social media, raises complex issues. While it risks glossing over socio-economic challenges, it also fosters cultural awareness, potentially catalyzing urban renewal. However, caution is needed to prevent superficial aesthetic treatments from overshadowing substantive improvements in these areas.»
Reclaiming Space: A Call for Inclusive and Sustainable Urban Futures
«Remembering forgotten architectural narratives is an academic and nostalgic pursuit, but it’s also a crucial step towards reimagining our living spaces. This reconstruction must prioritize social inclusion and environmental sustainability, ensuring that no aspect of our shared environment is overlooked.»
Original article by Alessia Malcaus, elaborated with the help of AI
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